Galactic Bloodshed is a text-based game that operates on a client-server network, offering an update-driven multiplayer experience. It is a classic example of a 4X game, taking players on a journey through space exploration, empire management, diplomacy, and battles.
The game is open source, and it offers incredible depth and complexity. It is a unique game that stands out from other games of its kind in several ways. While the primary objective of the game is to take over planets and win, the specifics of doing so are entirely different in every way that you can imagine.
First, you need to set up the game, and this process is overseen by the referee, who is also known as the deity. The deity will select a map and initial conditions, set up the players on their home planets, and ensure that the game is running smoothly. Unfortunately, the referee cannot play the game since they will have insider knowledge, which would ruin the game for everyone else.
The basic engine of the game is designed to be played with a telnet terminal, but with the advancement of technology, it is now possible to build clients that make the game easier to play. These clients include GBII, which isn't much of an improvement over the Telnet UI; there is also a Java client.
Since the game is played from a terminal, it ends up being highly modal. Many of the commands have to be "prefixed" by moving to the correct location first. For instance, you might have a bunch of planets, and you need to change the scope to the one you are interested in before giving orders to that specific planet. This system of controlling practically everything in the game, from ships and planets to factories on the planets, adds complexity to the user interface.
Race design is one of the game's most complex and exciting features. It is at least as complex as the system in MOO:II, but with different challenges. Like MOO, it uses a point system to limit the abilities of the race to create a level playing field, but it isn't always easy.
In conclusion, Galactic Bloodshed is a fantastic game that offers complexity, depth, and uniqueness that you won't find in other games. Although it may seem challenging to set up, it is worth the effort for those interested in an immersive and stimulating gaming experience.
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